REQUIEM MASS

Press, Volume LXXXIII, Issue 25303, 1 October 1947, Page 8

REQUIEM MASS

BODY LYING IN STATE (P.A.) WELLINGTON, Sept. 30. The many friends of Mr James O’Brien told of his gentle, human kindness, his geniality, and fairmindedness, and as they drew closer to him their appreciation grew deeper, said the Most Rev. Monsignor T. F. Connolly, V.G., in the panegyric at Solemn Requiem Mass at the Sacred Heart Basilica to-day. Men in public life made many sacrifices, adopting a life of untiring works and never-ending tasks, and the people owed thanks and honour to such men, said Monsignor Connolly. Mr O’Brien’s public service extended over 40 years jn New Zealand. The Metropolitan of New Zealand (Archbishop O’Shea) was enthroned at the altar, and after Mass he gave the absolution at the catafalque. The celebrant of the Mass was the Rev. Father B. E. Tottman. The Mass was attended by a representative of the Governor-General (Major the Hon. Neville Wigram), the Prime Minister (Mr P. Fraser), and members of the Cabinet, members of the diplomatic corps, the Leader of the Opposition (Mr S. G. Holland), members of both Houses of the Legislature, chiefs of staff, members of the Judiciary, and representatives of all sections of the community. This afternoon Mr O’Brien’s coffin lay in the silent lobby of Parliament Buildings. The lobby was sombrely shrouded in black and purple and a guard was mounted. Members of the public filed past, and many flowers ■were received.